Farming has come a long way over the past few decades. Today’s farmers are not only achieving record-breaking harvests but are also taking smart steps to protect our environment. Thanks to new technologies, precision farming, and innovative methods, crop protection is now kinder to our planet even as production increases quite dramatically.
At Bayer, we’re proud to help farmers do more with less. A study by the Technical University of Denmark shows that our crop protection methods have one of the lowest environmental impacts compared to other companies. While we’re happy with that success, we’re even more excited about the future.
Our Big Goal for 2030
Bayer is setting its sights on a bold goal: to reduce the environmental impact of its crop protection tools on a global treated area per hectare basis by 30% by 2030, using a baseline drawn from the 2014-2018 period. This goal reflects our commitment to constant improvement and sustainable innovation.
We know that every farm is unique, so we’re teaming up with growers to find the best solutions for their needs. Here’s how we’re making a difference:
- Precision Application Technologies: Using smart tools to deliver just the right amount of product exactly when and where it’s needed.
- Seed-Applied Treatments: Applying treatments directly to seeds to cut down on the total amount of chemicals used.
- Enhanced Genetics and Traits: Developing crops with built-in resistances that help reduce the need for in-crop chemical interventions.
- Innovative Chemistries and Biologics: Creating new, effective products that lower environmental risks and work well with integrated pest management practices.
In addition, we’re also working with farmers to help them adopt best practices like planting cover crops, using buffer zones, optimizing tillage methods, and reducing runoff. These simple steps not only keep crops healthy but also protect our soil and water.
Keeping it Open and Transparent
We believe in transparency. To track our progress, we use environmental impact models developed by the Technical University of Denmark. Currently focused on assessing potential impacts on aquatic ecosystems, these models will soon expand to include soil health and pollinator populations. The data and methods we’re collecting are publicly available. We invite the scientific community to review what we’re doing and the impact we’re making: we believe in accountability and know it requires many committed individuals working together to move in the right direction.
Come join us in building the future of agriculture, one big step forward for sustainability at a time!
